Kelp is having a moment, but not for the reason most people think. It grows astonishingly fast, builds huge biomass, and pulls carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere as it grows. So far so good - the hard part is making sure that carbon does not simply bounce straight back into the carbon cycle.
In this episode we talk to Jorunn Skjermo, Senior Research Scientist at SINTEF, to unpack what seaweed-based carbon removal could look like in the real world and what has to be true for it to deliver genuine climate positive outcomes.
We start with the basics of kelp farming and then focus in on SINTEF’s Seaweed Carbon Solutions work around offshore Norway. Jorun explains why offshore sites can be more productive, how nutrient-rich currents drive growth, and what the team learns when they move beyond sheltered waters into harsher conditions.
We also talk about the ocean itself: how kelp farms can create habitat for crustaceans and fish, how large-scale seaweed farming may reduce local acidification, and where optimism about ecosystem restoration meets the limits of ocean warming and pollution.
Then we get practical about permanent carbon storage, look squarely at the awkward truths on claiming negative emissions, and explore solutions like reusing steel, electric vessels, and using excess heat from other industries, plus a provocative idea about repurposing retired oil rigs.
If you love climate tech, ocean science or the wonderful world of seaweed, this is an episode for you!
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